Kelsey Socha

Recovery Support Specialist and Manager of the Family Resource Center at the Institute of Living

Hartford Hospital

Kelsey Socha, a recovery support specialist and manager of the Family Resource Center at the Institute of Living, a department of Hartford Hospital, is known among his peers for his collaboration and significant contributions to the training of other recovery support specialists. He consistently goes above and beyond, presenting community seminars on a variety of topics; facilitating training sessions and support groups; and ensuring that the individuals he interacts with feel seen, heard, and validated. His approach to every interaction is characterized by a deep respect for others, always prioritizing their dignity and well-being.

What truly sets Kelsey apart is his tireless devotion to his community. He volunteers countless evenings and weekends to facilitate Mental Health First Aid; Question, Persuade, Refer suicide trainings; and community seminars and local events. His dedication to these initiatives has had a profound impact on raising awareness and promoting mental health within the community. His selfless contributions are a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of others.

One key example of this is his work with the Center for Gender Health and his role in educating providers, patients, and community members about the importance of gender-affirming care, including the annual Building Gender Literacy Conference. Kelsey has been a dedicated collaborator, contributor, and speaker at these conferences for the past several years. His leadership within the Family Resource Center has been invaluable in ensuring the success of this event each year.

Kelsey is consistently authentic, humanistic, and ready to support both his teams and patients in any way needed. As a mentor and educator, he has shared his lived experience and expertise with countless individuals, from patients to colleagues. His influence has inspired many to pursue careers in the mental health field, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

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